A revamped BMX track has officially opened in Nanaimo, B.C., offering year-round use for enthusiasts across Vancouver Island and beyond. The Marie Davidson BMX Track has undergone a $1.9-million renovation, featuring a state-of-the-art design implemented by Olympic BMX track builder, Tom Ritz Design. Key improvements include a durable surface comprising recycled concrete and asphalt, stabilized with dust suppressant, extending the facility to 4,000 square meters from its previous 2,800.
Craig Hashimoto, president of the Nanaimo BMX Association, celebrated the upgrade, emphasizing the enhanced training opportunities the improved facility provides, especially during winter when riding options are limited. Designed with both amateur and professional riders in mind, the track includes a new five-metre start hill and an official’s platform.
Young riders like nine-year-old Maple Nychyporuk have already expressed their enthusiasm for the new features, praising the increased size and rhythm of the track. Ryley Cofield, an 18-year-old with international competition experience, highlighted the track’s elevated standard as beneficial for preparing for high-level races.
Funding for the transformation came primarily from the Canada Community-Building Fund, managed by the Union of BC Municipalities, and B.C.’s Growing Communities Fund, with the Nanaimo BMX Association contributing an additional $50,000. Although currently open for casual and club use, the track will host competitions upon the installation of a hydraulic start gate in the spring, with an official opening slated for 2025. The track will also host the Harbour City Nationals in July.
